Why Annual Skin Checks with a Skin Cancer Doctor Are More Important Than Ever in 2025
May 20, 2025
Skin cancer remains one of the most common forms of cancer globally, and in 2025, its incidence will continue to rise. As our lifestyles evolve and environmental factors shift, the importance of early detection through annual skin checks has never been more vital. A regular consultation with a skin cancer doctor can be the difference between a simple outpatient procedure and a complex, life-altering treatment journey.
Dr Shaun Segal, a leading expert in skin cancer detection and treatment, emphasises the urgent need for routine skin examinations. His insights reflect the evolving nature of skin cancer risks and the medical advancements that are shaping preventive care in 2025.
The Alarming Rise of Skin Cancer Cases
In recent years, skin cancer rates have increased across all age groups, including younger populations who were once considered low-risk. This trend is largely attributed to prolonged sun exposure, the thinning ozone layer, and increased use of artificial tanning methods. Furthermore, the global population is spending more time outdoors and travelling to sunnier regions, often without adequate sun protection.
Dr Shaun Segal points out that many individuals still underestimate how quickly skin cancer can develop. “Skin cancer can progress silently. It may start as a small lesion that people ignore, only to become a serious concern months later,” he explains.
The Types of Skin Cancer and Their Risk
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. BCC and SCC are more common and generally less aggressive, but melanoma is known for its rapid spread and high mortality if not detected early.
In 2025, advancements in diagnostic technology have made it easier to detect even the most subtle signs of these cancers. Still, these tools are only effective if patients undergo regular checks. Annual skin checks provide the opportunity to catch abnormal moles or lesions before they become malignant.
Also Read: Skin Cancer in People of Color: Why 2025 Is the Year to Change the Narrative
Why Annual Skin Checks Are Essential
Early detection is the most critical factor in successfully treating skin cancer. Annual skin checks allow doctors like Dr Shaun Segal to monitor changes in your skin over time. With high-definition dermatoscopes and digital mole-mapping tools now widely available in 2025, skin cancer doctors can maintain accurate records and quickly identify changes that warrant further investigation.
Dr Shaun Segal explains, “Many cancers caught during an annual check are so early that they can be removed right there in the clinic. That’s the power of prevention and early detection.”
Technology and Innovation in 2025
The year 2025 has brought significant innovations in dermatology. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered skin analysis tools are now part of many clinics, helping doctors identify patterns associated with malignancy. However, these tools are not a replacement for professional expertise—they enhance it.
Dr Shaun Segal integrates these technologies into his practice, combining AI-driven diagnostics with years of clinical experience to ensure accurate evaluations. “AI helps us see what the naked eye can miss,” he notes. “But the clinical judgment behind those findings is still what determines the next steps.”
Skin Checks Save Lives
Statistics from 2025 confirm that people who undergo annual skin checks have a significantly higher survival rate if diagnosed with skin cancer. The survival rate for early-detected melanoma exceeds 99%, compared to below 70% for cases found in later stages.
Even non-melanoma skin cancers, which are generally less aggressive, can lead to serious health issues or disfigurement if not caught in time. Regular checks ensure that such conditions are addressed before they evolve into something more dangerous.
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Addressing the Misconceptions
One of the reasons many people avoid skin checks is the belief that they are only necessary for individuals with fair skin or those who spend a lot of time in the sun. In reality, skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone, age, or lifestyle.
In 2025, public health campaigns are focused on dispelling these myths, and specialists like Dr Shaun Segal play an integral role in educating the public. He stresses, “No one is immune to skin cancer. Everyone should prioritize skin health.”
High-Risk Individuals
Certain groups are at a higher risk for skin cancer, including:
- People with a history of sunburns
- Individuals with a family history of skin cancer
- Those with numerous or unusual moles
- People who use tanning beds
- Individuals with suppressed immune systems
For these individuals, Dr Shaun Segal recommends more frequent checkups—sometimes bi-annually or quarterly, depending on personal history and risk factors.
What Happens During a Skin Check?
A typical skin check in 2025 is a quick, painless process that generally takes less than 30 minutes. It involves a thorough examination of your skin from head to toe. Using tools like dermatoscopes, skin cancer doctors can closely inspect suspicious lesions.
If anything unusual is found, a small biopsy may be taken immediately, with results available in a few days. Modern labs in 2025 use faster and more accurate testing methods, reducing the waiting time and anxiety for patients.
Dr Shaun Segal ensures that every patient understands what to expect during and after their check. His patient-centered approach helps ease concerns and promotes proactive care.
Also Read: Skin Cancer Prevention for Families: Tips for Teaching Kids Healthy Sun Habits
Prevention Tips to Complement Skin Checks
While annual skin checks are crucial, prevention remains the best defense against skin cancer. Here are a few updated tips from 2025 to reduce your risk:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
- Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning beds completely—they increase melanoma risk by over 70%.
- Monitor your own skin monthly and take note of any changes using smartphone skin health tracking apps.
- Seek shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Stay hydrated and keep your skin moisturized to maintain overall skin health.
Make Skin Health a Priority in 2025
In 2025, with increasing access to advanced dermatological care and digital health tools, there is no excuse for neglecting your skin health. Annual skin checks with a qualified skin cancer doctor are a small investment of time that can yield life-saving results.
Dr Shaun Segal urges everyone to take skin cancer seriously. “You only get one skin,” he reminds us. “Protect it, check it, and never ignore a change.”
Whether you’re at high risk or simply proactive about your health, scheduling your annual skin check is one of the most important decisions you can make in 2025. It’s not just about preventing cancer—it’s about preserving your quality of life.